HBA-BSM H.B. 3169 77(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


Office of House Bill AnalysisH.B. 3169
By: Thompson
Judicial Affairs
3/20/2001
Introduced



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

The state's 14 courts of appeals have varying caseloads.  Some courts
transfer out nearly 20 percent of their cases.  Many courts are also in two
appeals districts, which creates some confusion over which court of appeals
to appeal to and may also lead to forum shopping.  By reapportioning the
appeals courts, a better balance may be achieved and  a more convenient
access to the appeals court. House Bill 3169 abolishes the present appeals
districts and places all counties into two separate appeals districts. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the opinion of the Office of House Bill Analysis that this bill does
not expressly delegate any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, department, agency, or institution. 

ANALYSIS

House Bill 3169 amends the Government Code by repealing provisions relating
to the 14 courts of appeals. The bill divides the state into two courts of
appeals districts with a court of appeals in each district.  The bill sets
forth the counties which comprise each district. 

EFFECTIVE DATE

December 31, 2003.